New Mexico Rear-End Collision Lawyer

What is a rear end collision?

A rear-end collision is when one vehicle strikes the back of another vehicle. The impact damages the front end of one vehicle and the back end of another vehicle.
Rear-end collisions can happen when:

• The vehicle in front stops abruptly
• The vehicle behind is driving too fast
• The vehicle behind is driving too close (tailgating)
• The vehicle behind is not paying attention to traffic lights
• Either driver is distracted

What is the average payout for a rear-end collision?

While there is no way to calculate the average payout for rear-end collisions, the experienced car accident attorneys at Ron Bell Injury Lawyers work hard to get clients the compensation they deserve. They look into damage caps and policy limits of the negligent party’s insurance as well as calculate the amount of losses the victim suffered, including economic damages and non-economic damages.

Who is at fault in a rear end collision?

You may have heard that the person who strikes the back of another vehicle is at-fault for a rear-end collision. However, determining fault in a rear-end collision isn’t always that simple. That’s why it’s so important to file a police report and take pictures of the scene of the car crash. This evidence can help determine fault in a rear-end car accident.

How long does a rear-end collision settlement take?

Should your rear-end collision injury case settle out of court, it could take anywhere from three months to three years. The amount of time a rear-end collision settlement takes is dependent on the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries, and the determination of fault.

When is a rear-end collision not your fault?

There are several scenarios that can help determine fault in a rear-end collision. While most people believe that the car in the back is at fault, key factors that show the driver in front is at fault for the accident can include:

• Broken or malfunctioning taillights
• Improper merging techniques
• Sudden reversing (especially in parking lot situations)
• Sudden and unjustified stopping or braking
• Mechanical failures
• Brake checking

The best way to prove you are not at fault if you hit the rear of someone else’s car is to have a dashcam, but witness statements and police reports can also help you prove you were not at fault.

When to hire a lawyer after a rear-end collision

After a rear-end collision in New Mexico, you may be wondering when to contact a car accident lawyer in your area. Ultimately, the sooner you contact an attorney, the better. Don’t wait for the insurance company to contact you. Anything you say to them could potentially reduce the amount of recovery for your case.

Calling a rear-end collision attorney immediately can help you ensure that your case is properly investigated, and all the documentation for your injuries and losses are collected before an insurance company attempts to offer a low-ball deal.

The experienced car accident attorneys at Ron Bell Injury Lawyers have decades of experience working with rear-end collision victims across Albuquerque and New Mexico. We understand how difficult it could be to prove fault in rear-end collision cases, and we know how to negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today to get your free case evaluation. 898-BELL

Common injuries sustained from a rear-end collision

Common injuries associated with rear-end collisions can include:

• Soft tissue damage
• Whiplash
• Herniated discs
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Broken bones (fractures)
• Organ damage
• Lacerations

How to avoid rear-end collisions

Maintain Your Distance

The best way to avoid rear-end collisions is to leave enough space between you and the car ahead of you. Exercising a safe driving distance is essential to ensure you can stop your vehicle if the vehicle in front of you has to brake suddenly. Even if the car in front of you is driving under the speed limit, and you are unable to pass them, always be sure to stay at least 3-4 seconds behind them. To calculate this, choose a structure or landmark, and when the car ahead of you passes it, begin counting. If you don’t get to three or four before your car passes the landmark, you are not a safe stopping distance behind the car ahead of you.

Avoid tailgating to ensure you don’t rear-end someone on the road, should they need to stop.

Avoid Distractions

Distracted driving can lead to rear-end collisions. Should you look away from the road or take your attention off the vehicle in front of you, you could risk missing that vehicle braking, stopping, or slowing. Stay focused and stay up to date on New Mexico’s distracted driving laws.

Stay Aware

Don’t just focus on the car ahead of you while driving. If possible, scan ahead of that car to anticipate the flow of traffic. If you see brake lights on the cars beyond the one ahead of you, take your foot off the gas, and prepare to brake. If you see a red light coming up, prepare to stop, even if the car ahead of you doesn’t.